BMD, Cut & Fill and Seymour Whyte are shortlisted to submit tenders for the $30 million Swan Street Bridge in Melbourne. The winning contractor will be delivering the following upgrade works to the iconic bridge:

An additional eastbound traffic lane

New shared paths for cyclists and pedestrians on both sides of the river, separated from road traffic

The successful bidder is expected to be announced by the end of 2016 and construction will commence in mid-2017.

Traffic congestion will be reduced, safety is expected to improve, and greater access to Melbourne’s sports and entertainment precinct will be provided once upgrade works are done.

The Andrews Labor Government asked the local community for their feedback regarding the bridge upgrade earlier in the year. The community feedback highlighted the importance of the bridge in Melbourne’s sporting and cultural way of life. It also addressed traffic congestion as well as the safety of pedestrians and cyclists who are using the bridge.

The winning design by BKK Architects drew inspiration from different landmarks including the Arts Centre as well as from the rowers seen each morning, trying to make their way up and down the Yarra River.

"We've heard from the community about how they want the bridge to look and feel and we're now getting with creating a world class bridge for a world class city.

"This design will give Swan Street Bridge a modern makeover without losing its existing charm," said Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan.